Federal Census

Jefferson County, New York

The 1850 Federal Census is considered the basis for most research
since it was the first one to include all individuals by name in a
dwelling. However the earlier census provide excellent insights into how
an area grew over time. Consequently in our research we use pre-1850
census of Jefferson County to proved snapshots into the early growth of
the county and to document the families that established the
infrastructure as we know it today.

The first census where Jefferson County, New York was recorded as an
entity was in 1810. Using that as a foundation you can trace families as
they migrated into and out of the county, as well as within it.

One point to remember is that the structure of Jefferson County has
changed over time. For example the Town of Orleans didn't exist until
1825, therefore in the 1820 census those individuals, who eventually
ended up in Orleans, are listed in the Town of Brownville. In the
earlier Census it is as important to look for the individual county wide
rather than in a specific town.

As a note: not all of the Towns have been completed. Once fully
transcribed, they will be posted. To understand how our census data is
derived , please visit the Census Fact
page.